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Kenyan President William Ruto plans to build a church on the grounds of his official residence at his own expense, causing consternation in the East African country.<\/p>\n
The criticism stems from the fact that Kenya’s constitution mandates a separation of church and state.<\/p>\n
According to media reports, Ruto’s place of worship is expected to accommodate up to 8,000 people.<\/p>\n
At a meeting with local politicians, Ruto confirmed the construction plans and dismissed the criticism, stating that he would pay for the construction out of his own pocket.<\/p>\n
Reports suggest that the church could cost up to 1.2 billion Kenyan shillings ($9.3 million).<\/p>\n
Ruto, who describes himself as a devout Christian, did not provide any details about the construction costs.<\/p>\n
There was significant criticism of the project on social media, with many pointing to the state of schools and hospitals that are in more urgent need of financial support.<\/p>\n
Other critics have constitutional concerns, as the Kenyan constitution does not provide for a state religion and the country is multireligious, with a variety of Christian denominations, a Muslim population of just over 10%, and a large Hindu minority.<\/p>\n
It is also questionable whether the construction will benefit Ruto at all, with presidential elections due in Kenya in two years.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n